The Role of Natural and Artificial Feeding in The Development of The Brain in Early Childhood
Abstract
Background: Early childhood development forms the foundation of health, learning, and behavior throughout life. Sleep plays a crucial role in brain maturation, synaptic reorganization, and cellular homeostasis. Sleep disturbances affect approximately 33% of children and are associated with cognitive deficits, behavioral problems, and metabolic dysfunction. Nutrition, particularly the composition of infant feeding, may significantly influence sleep architecture and neurophysiological development. Objective: To evaluate the role of natural (breastfeeding) and artificial feeding (with and without probiotics) on brain bioelectrical activity and sleep–wake cycle formation in early childhood. Methods: A one-year prospective study was conducted involving 122 children (62 boys, 60 girls) divided into three groups: Group 1 (n=22) – exclusively breastfed; Group 2 (n=50) – fed with infant milk formulas without probiotics; Group 3 (n=50) – fed with infant milk formulas containing probiotics. Psychosomatic status and sleep–wake rhythms were assessed using electroencephalography (EEG), sleep duration measurements, and analysis of daytime/nighttime awakenings. Bacteriological stool examination was also performed. Results: At 1 month of age, all groups showed normal EEG indicators. From 3 to 12 months, Group 2 demonstrated significantly lower alpha-wave index values (p < 0.01) and delayed maturation of bioelectrical brain activity compared to Groups 1 and 3. The delta index showed the strongest age-related reduction in Group 3 (p < 0.01). At 12 months, REM sleep duration was highest in Group 3 (70%), while deep sleep predominated in Group 1 (60–65%). Children in Groups 1 and 3 had fewer nighttime awakenings (1–2 vs. 2–3 in Group 2; p ≤ 0.05) and more organized sleep cycles. Bacteriological analysis revealed that 90.1% of children in Group 2 had reduced bifidobacteria counts compared to Group 1 (p ≤ 0.001). Conclusion: Breastfeeding and probiotic-supplemented infant formulas are associated with more favorable EEG parameters, accelerated maturation of bioelectrical brain activity, improved sleep architecture, and healthier gut microbiota compared to standard formula without probiotics. These findings support the importance of optimal nutrition for early neurodevelopment.